8TH OCTOBER 2007
A real ale revolution Brewery boost for Haigh pub
THE VICTORIA pub in Haigh is full of Wigan pride after being taken over a local brewery.
Not only is a quality real ale named Wigan Pride going down a storm, the pub is thriving after being given a new lease of life by Wigan’s own All Gates brewery.
The award-winning microbrewery snapped up the Victoria at the beginning of the year and they have certainly restored Wiganers’ pride in the quality of their local.
Regular Johnny Freeman said: “The Wigan Pride is one of the best bitters I’ve ever tasted.
“I stopped drinking bitter and I’ve been a lager drinker for years, but I’m moving back to bitter after tasting that – it’s a great pint.”
Superb
The beer has been specially brewed for the Wigan Food and Drink Festival and is being served at a number of Wigan pubs.
Landlady Kelly Thorpe said: “The real ale has gone down superbly with the customers and it’s what makes the pub really.”
Landlord Lee Burrows added: “It’s a really good traditional boozer.
“I’m originally from Leicester but I like it here in Wigan – it’s a lot more peaceful and a lot friendlier up here.”
Husband and wife Graham and Joan Simm were enjoying the last few rays of British sunshine before jetting off to Spain for a holiday.
Graham said: “The ‘Napoleon’s Retreat’ is superb – it’s as good a pint as I’ve ever tasted.” Joan added: “I don’t drink any of the beers but I love coming in because of the atmosphere. Everyone is really friendly.”
Scaffolder Ian Cameron is a regular at the pub on his dinner break. He said: “It’s quiet in the day compared to the evenings – it gets really busy on Friday and Sunday evenings and it’s a great night.”
Barmaid Vicky Almond said: “These guys give me plenty of grief but I love working here.”
